Saints Nation: Saints drop preseason finale to Dolphins, 10-7

In an ugly game filled with inconsistent offensive play and horrendous pass blocking, the Saints lost 10-7 to the Dolphins to end their preseason campaign 3-1 (BOX SCORE). The Saints’ lone score came on a 55 yard punt return for a touchdown by Rod Harper. The biggest loss didn’t come from the scoreboard, however, as reliable backup tight end Billy Miller (pictured) left the game with what appeared to be a serious Achilles tendon injury. While Sean Payton said after the game that it was too early to tell the extent of the injury, all signs point towards Miller being out for the year. Couple that with Dan Campbell already out for the year, and Darnell Dinkins missing almost all of preseason with an ankle injury – and the Saints are extremely thin at tight end behind starter Jeremy Shockey.

Observations:

— Lynell Hamilton looked very good in extended reps. I fully expect him to make the final 53 based on yesterday’s performance.

— Joey Harrington looked lost out there. Admittedly his line blocking was abysmal, but Harrington held onto the ball too long and could not get the offense moving. He may have cost himself a roster spot with that performance.

— The kicking game for the Saints in the preseason has been HORRENDOUS. Carney continued that trend shanking a 34 yard attempt before halftime. They better get that corrected in a hurry. Shades of Olindo Mare are starting to creep back into my head – please make it stop.

— Thomas Morstead was a bright spot for once, finally showing up why the Saints drafted him. Not one of his punts was returned, and he also featured a 63 yard blast inside the 10. Very solid game from the Saints’ rookie punter.

— Rod Harper better make the team. 2 punt returns for TD’s in 4 games? That’s Reggie Bush like.

— Jo-Lonn Dunbar could be a starter for the Saints at linebacker in the not too distant future. He was all over the place creating plays. A very impressive performance from him.

We’ll find out at 3pm tomorrow who are the final 53 players to make the roster. Keep in mind the Saints may go out looking for a tight end and maybe a defensive tackle that get cut from other rosters to add depth.